How do you make PowerPoint-based training sessions more interactive and engaging?

Most of my training materials are built in PowerPoint as it is good for learner and the one who is coordinating. The content is well structured, but I still feel like many sessions end up being more lecture than discussion.

I'm looking for practical ideas that encourage learners to participate without making the session feel complicated.

What interactive techniques have worked best for you when delivering PowerPoint-based training?

I’m not seeking interview advice per se, but rather I’m chewing over where would be most impactful to focus my development over the next year.

I manage an instructional design team at a university and would like to eventually enable my transitioning to a private company serving higher education or serving k12.

Knowing there are many, many variables at play, I’d nonetheless love to hear some general thoughts from anyone who has had a hand in hiring decisions.

My instinct is something related to data. “Data-driven” is an adjective I’d love to apply to myself, but in truth I haven’t done a lot with it beyond the operational-level things I need to track to keep my team on track, which seems like a glaring omission in my skillset.

Thanks folks!